On July 19th, 2025, the banks of the Chattooga River came alive with something truly powerful: SHEtooga 2025, an all-female whitewater kayaking event rooted in empowerment, community, and giving back. Hosted at Humble Pie in Long Creek, SC, 25 incredible women gathered to paddle, connect, and raise funds for the Helene Rebuild Collaborative, a non-profit helping rebuild homes for Hurricane Helene victims.
Starting the Day with Intention
The day kicked off with a peaceful yet energizing yoga session led by Jill Wrenn. The patio at Humble Pie filled quickly, with women stretching out on mats, picnic tables, and even large boulders. It set the tone for a day centered on connection, presence, and support—not just on the mat, but on the river.
Section 3.5: Courage in Motion
After yoga, shuttle bunnies Trey (owner of Humble Pie) and Clay Nash loaded up the crew and transported everyone to Thrifts Ferry, where 25 women launched onto Section 3.5 of the Chattooga River. Boats ranged from playboats to creekers, and the river lit up with color and laughter. The magnitude of smiles was limitless. Encouragement echoed down the banks with every rapid.
The group scouted Bull Sluice together—a moment where support and courage flowed as freely as the river itself. Some were nervous. But everyone made it through with grins, cheers, and a renewed sense of strength. Seeing a fleet of colorful kayaks captained solely by women was nothing short of breathtaking.
Afternoon Reflections and Real Talk
Back at Humble Pie, we shifted from the river to reflection with three powerful talks that reminded us that kayaking is more than a sport—it’s a mirror.
- I opened the afternoon speaking about fear, and asked a question we all face at the edge of a rapid: What would your best self do?
- Anne Sontheimer followed, sharing insights on mindset—how changing your perspective can turn every challenge into an opportunity.
- Juliet Jacobsen Kastorff, co-founder of Endless River Adventures, closed with a moving talk about the history of women in whitewater and how far we’ve come.
Paddling with Purpose: $2,255 Raised
The day concluded with a community raffle where 100% of proceeds went to the Helene Rebuild Collaborative. Thanks to generous sponsors and passionate paddlers, we raised $2,255—the most we’ve ever collected at a Paddle In Pink event. These funds will go directly toward helping families rebuild their homes and their lives.
Final Thoughts
SHEtooga 2025 was more than a kayaking event. It was a reminder that when women come together on the river, the current carries more than water—it carries stories, strength, and support.
From the flow of the Chattooga to the spirit of every paddler who showed up with courage and compassion, SHEtooga will continue to grow—not just in numbers, but in impact. Here’s to more runs, more connection, and more giving back in 2026.
Rob Giersch – The Magic Behind the Lens
We had the honor of having Rob cover our media needs. If you haven’t seen his work, check out his website and start following him on Instagram.
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